The NFL playoffs started today with two games in the Wild Card round.
The first one featured a rematch from last year's Wild Card round with the Bengals once again making a trip to Houston to take on the Texans. Houston managed to win last year's game and pulled off the same result today. It was a low scoring game throughout and the Bengals offense didn't do much failing to convert all 9 of their 3rd down attempts, only getting 12 first downs compared to Houston's 24, and only having 198 total yards compared to Houston's 420. The Bengals' only TD came off a Leon Hall interception in the 2nd quarter. Cincy's defense might've kept them in the game until the end but their offense didn't have the spark. Houston wins 19-13.
The 2nd game was less exciting despite the match up. After beating the Packers in Minnesota just to get into the postseason, the Vikings now traveled to Green Bay to face the cheeseheads for a 2nd week in a row. This time, however, they had to do it without Christian Ponder at QB. Joe Webb came in off the bench to play having not thrown the ball once this season. On top of that, the Green Bay defense played Adrian Peterson much better allowing him to get just 99 rushing yards on 22 carries. That combined with Joe Webb equaled a Packers win 24-10.
Both home teams win and know who they will face in the next round. The Texans will travel to New England to face the Patriots while the Packers go to the Bay Area to play the 49ers. Both the Texans and the Packers played their upcoming opponents during the regular season. The Pats beat the Texans in week 14 while the 49ers beat the Packers in week 1.
Showing posts with label Packers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Packers. Show all posts
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Monday, December 31, 2012
Redskins Win NFC East, Vikes Squeeze Into Postseason, Broncos and Pats Get Byes and More
The last week in the NFL was huge as it featured quite a few good games with playoff implications.
The biggest perhaps was the Cowboys vs. the Redskins with the NFC East title on the line and the loser not getting into the postseason. Both sides started out slow and it was tied at 7 heading into the locker room. The 2nd half had more of the Washington's ground game wearing down the Dallas defense. Rookie Alfred Morris managed to run an even 200 yards against the Cowboys and managed 3 rushing TDs. RG3, meanwhile, only had 100 passing yards going 9/18 with 63 rushing yards and a rushing TD.
Dallas fell behind by 11 and managed to cut the lead by 3 with just under 6 minutes left. Tony Romo, however, made a season ending mistake throwing his third interception of the game with this one being picked off by London Fletcher on a dump pass to DeMarco Murray. The Redskins managed to kill the clock down to 1:09 left in regulation and scored the nail-in-the-coffin TD with Morris' third score. Redskins win the NFC East 28-18. Dallas misses the playoffs for a third straight season while Washington gets in with a rookie QB and running back leading the way.
There was also a big game earlier that day involving the Packers and the Vikings. Green Bay was fighting for the #2 seed in the NFC while Minnesota was fighting to just get into the postseason. The Packers knew that Adrian Peterson of the Vikings was going to run on them and they still couldn't stop him. Peterson ran for 199 yards including a 26 yard run to get the Vikings a chip shot field goal for Blair Walsh to win the game 37-34. Peterson, however, still finishes 9 yards shy of breaking Eric Dickerson single season rushing record. Vikings get into the playoffs as a wild card while the Packers lose the #2 seed with this loss and the 49ers beating the Cardinals 27-13 claiming the bye week for themselves.
Some craziness in the top seeding of the AFC. In an emotional game in which Chuck Pagano made his return to the Colts, Indianapolis beats Houston 28-16. The Broncos and the Patriots both capitalized on the Texans loss winning their respective games. Denver blows out Kansas City 38-3 while New England shuts out Miami 28-0. Broncos get the #1 seed and home field advantage while the Pats grab the #2 seed. Texans are stuck playing in the wild card round of the playoffs as they finished the last 4 games of the season 1-3 after starting 11-1.
As for noteworthy news, the Giants blow out the Eagles 42-7 but are eliminated from playoff contention. Looks like a 9-7 record didn't cut it this year for the G-Men. The Bears win their game 26-24 over the Lions but with the Vikings win they fall just short of the playoffs. Minnesota and Chicago have the same record of 10-6 but the advantage goes to the Vikes who had a better divisional record of 4-2. Last one I'll mention is that the Seahawks beat the Rams 20-13. Not really a significant win with the 49ers claiming the NFC West but Seattle finishes the season undefeated at home with a 8-0 record at CenturyLink Field. Thank goodness nobody has to play them there in the postseason.
A great 2012 regular season ends with a lot of excitement and noticeably 3 rookie quarterbacks leading their teams into the playoffs. Two of them will actually meet in the wild card round of the postseason with the Seahawks traveling to Washington to play the Redskins. It's going to be a good postseason.
P.S. There is also an interesting game on the other NFC wild card game with the Vikings now going to Green Bay to play the Packers. Let's see if the Pack can stop Peterson at home.
P.P.S. Click here for a full recap of the 49ers win over the Cardinals. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for updates on the team before and after each game.
The biggest perhaps was the Cowboys vs. the Redskins with the NFC East title on the line and the loser not getting into the postseason. Both sides started out slow and it was tied at 7 heading into the locker room. The 2nd half had more of the Washington's ground game wearing down the Dallas defense. Rookie Alfred Morris managed to run an even 200 yards against the Cowboys and managed 3 rushing TDs. RG3, meanwhile, only had 100 passing yards going 9/18 with 63 rushing yards and a rushing TD.
Dallas fell behind by 11 and managed to cut the lead by 3 with just under 6 minutes left. Tony Romo, however, made a season ending mistake throwing his third interception of the game with this one being picked off by London Fletcher on a dump pass to DeMarco Murray. The Redskins managed to kill the clock down to 1:09 left in regulation and scored the nail-in-the-coffin TD with Morris' third score. Redskins win the NFC East 28-18. Dallas misses the playoffs for a third straight season while Washington gets in with a rookie QB and running back leading the way.
There was also a big game earlier that day involving the Packers and the Vikings. Green Bay was fighting for the #2 seed in the NFC while Minnesota was fighting to just get into the postseason. The Packers knew that Adrian Peterson of the Vikings was going to run on them and they still couldn't stop him. Peterson ran for 199 yards including a 26 yard run to get the Vikings a chip shot field goal for Blair Walsh to win the game 37-34. Peterson, however, still finishes 9 yards shy of breaking Eric Dickerson single season rushing record. Vikings get into the playoffs as a wild card while the Packers lose the #2 seed with this loss and the 49ers beating the Cardinals 27-13 claiming the bye week for themselves.
Some craziness in the top seeding of the AFC. In an emotional game in which Chuck Pagano made his return to the Colts, Indianapolis beats Houston 28-16. The Broncos and the Patriots both capitalized on the Texans loss winning their respective games. Denver blows out Kansas City 38-3 while New England shuts out Miami 28-0. Broncos get the #1 seed and home field advantage while the Pats grab the #2 seed. Texans are stuck playing in the wild card round of the playoffs as they finished the last 4 games of the season 1-3 after starting 11-1.
As for noteworthy news, the Giants blow out the Eagles 42-7 but are eliminated from playoff contention. Looks like a 9-7 record didn't cut it this year for the G-Men. The Bears win their game 26-24 over the Lions but with the Vikings win they fall just short of the playoffs. Minnesota and Chicago have the same record of 10-6 but the advantage goes to the Vikes who had a better divisional record of 4-2. Last one I'll mention is that the Seahawks beat the Rams 20-13. Not really a significant win with the 49ers claiming the NFC West but Seattle finishes the season undefeated at home with a 8-0 record at CenturyLink Field. Thank goodness nobody has to play them there in the postseason.
A great 2012 regular season ends with a lot of excitement and noticeably 3 rookie quarterbacks leading their teams into the playoffs. Two of them will actually meet in the wild card round of the postseason with the Seahawks traveling to Washington to play the Redskins. It's going to be a good postseason.
P.S. There is also an interesting game on the other NFC wild card game with the Vikings now going to Green Bay to play the Packers. Let's see if the Pack can stop Peterson at home.
P.P.S. Click here for a full recap of the 49ers win over the Cardinals. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for updates on the team before and after each game.
Monday, December 24, 2012
Steelers Out, Cowboys and G-Men Lose, Packers in Line for a #2 Seed and More
Week 16 was a big week in the NFL for the playoff picture and some playoff hopefuls. The Steelers, however, have gone down to playoff "Nopefuls."
The Cincinnati Bengals have lost their last 5 games against the Pittsburgh Steelers but could make up for all of that by clinching a playoff spot at Heinz Field. It was a close game throughout being tied up at 10-10. The Steelers had the ball with 44 seconds left in the game and were trying to get within field goal range for their kicker. Ben Roethlisberger then made a mistake and threw an interception to Safety Reggie Nelson of the Bengals on a pass intended for WR Mike Wallace. After a 21 yard pass from Andy Dalton to AJ Green, the Bengals kicker Josh Brown hit a 37 yard field goal to win the game with 4 seconds left. Bengals win 13-10 clinching a playoff spot while also eliminating the Steelers from the postseason picture.
Meanwhile, there were a lot of big games involving the NFC East teams. First, the Redskins were able to hold off the Eagles to win it 27-20. Robert Griffin III made his return after a week off due to injury and went 16/24 for 198 passing yards, 2 TD passes, and one INT. Meanwhile, the Cowboys fought back from14 down against the Saints and managed to tie the game forcing OT. However, the Saints got the ball after the Cowboys initial possession and managed to hit the game winning FG after a fumble by Marques Colston went their way and the ball was recovered by Saints TE Jimmy Graham at the Dallas 2. Garrett Hartley hit the 20 yard chip shot to win it for the Saints 34-31. As for the G-Men, they get manhandled for a 2nd week in row (though not shutout) with this loss coming at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens 33-14. The Ravens had 25 first downs in this game compared to the G-Men's 11 and had the ball for nearly 40 minutes.
As for other games in the NFL, the Packers destroyed the Jaguars 55-7 as Aaron Rodgers threw 3 TD passes in this game. That win combined with the 49ers loss gives Green Bay control of the #2 seed in the NFC heading into the last week of the season. Andrew Luck and the Colts clinched a playoff spot with a win over the Chiefs 20-13. The Colts get back into the playoffs after the horrible season last year. Last I'll mention that the Patriots and the Broncos win their respective games while the Texans fall to the Vikings 23-6. Houston still has control of the #1 seed in the AFC with the tie breaker over Denver while the Broncos have a 1 game lead over the Pats for the #2 seed.
One more week means some great games to finish the season. The biggest one might be the Redskins and the Cowboys taking over Sunday Night with the NFC East title on the line.
P.S. For a recap on the 49ers loss, click here. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com before and after every game.
The Cincinnati Bengals have lost their last 5 games against the Pittsburgh Steelers but could make up for all of that by clinching a playoff spot at Heinz Field. It was a close game throughout being tied up at 10-10. The Steelers had the ball with 44 seconds left in the game and were trying to get within field goal range for their kicker. Ben Roethlisberger then made a mistake and threw an interception to Safety Reggie Nelson of the Bengals on a pass intended for WR Mike Wallace. After a 21 yard pass from Andy Dalton to AJ Green, the Bengals kicker Josh Brown hit a 37 yard field goal to win the game with 4 seconds left. Bengals win 13-10 clinching a playoff spot while also eliminating the Steelers from the postseason picture.
Meanwhile, there were a lot of big games involving the NFC East teams. First, the Redskins were able to hold off the Eagles to win it 27-20. Robert Griffin III made his return after a week off due to injury and went 16/24 for 198 passing yards, 2 TD passes, and one INT. Meanwhile, the Cowboys fought back from14 down against the Saints and managed to tie the game forcing OT. However, the Saints got the ball after the Cowboys initial possession and managed to hit the game winning FG after a fumble by Marques Colston went their way and the ball was recovered by Saints TE Jimmy Graham at the Dallas 2. Garrett Hartley hit the 20 yard chip shot to win it for the Saints 34-31. As for the G-Men, they get manhandled for a 2nd week in row (though not shutout) with this loss coming at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens 33-14. The Ravens had 25 first downs in this game compared to the G-Men's 11 and had the ball for nearly 40 minutes.
As for other games in the NFL, the Packers destroyed the Jaguars 55-7 as Aaron Rodgers threw 3 TD passes in this game. That win combined with the 49ers loss gives Green Bay control of the #2 seed in the NFC heading into the last week of the season. Andrew Luck and the Colts clinched a playoff spot with a win over the Chiefs 20-13. The Colts get back into the playoffs after the horrible season last year. Last I'll mention that the Patriots and the Broncos win their respective games while the Texans fall to the Vikings 23-6. Houston still has control of the #1 seed in the AFC with the tie breaker over Denver while the Broncos have a 1 game lead over the Pats for the #2 seed.
One more week means some great games to finish the season. The biggest one might be the Redskins and the Cowboys taking over Sunday Night with the NFC East title on the line.
P.S. For a recap on the 49ers loss, click here. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com before and after every game.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Giants Crumble the Cheeseheads, Falcons Beat Bucs and More
The Sunday Night match up yesterday wasn't really a game so much as a beat down. The Packers wanted to win their postseason rematch vs. the Giants but New York wouldn't have any of it. The G-Men started to separate themselves from the Packers late in the 1st quarter and just continued into the 2nd quarter. Two more TDs by the G-Men in that quarter put them up by 21 at the half. One more TD for New York was all that was scored the rest of the game and the Giants put the Packers down 38-10. Eli Manning threw 3 TDs in this game while Aaron Rodgers threw one TD early and also an interception. Both teams are now 7-4.
Meanwhile, the Falcons took their questionable game play to Tampa to face the Buccaneers. This game featured a neck and neck game that went down to the final seconds as the Falcons barely make it out of central Florida with a 24-23 win. Atlanta scored the game winning TD with a Michael Turner 3 yard TD run in the middle of the 4th quarter. A FG miss for both sides afterwards put the end to this game. Falcons are now 10-1 while the Bucs fall to 6-5.
Tampa Bay, however, do not loss any ground in their Wild Card hunt. The Seahawks lose to the Dolphins 24-21 which keeps them at 6-5. So does Minnesota with their 28-10 loss to the Chicago Bears. True, Washington crept a step closer winning their game over Dallas on Thanksgiving but New Orleans 31-21 loss to San Francisco means they don't tie with the Bucs. So Seattle, Tampa, and Minnesota remain tied at 6-5 fighting for that 6th Wild Card spot.
Also, how does San Diego let Ray Rice convert a 4th and 29 on a dump play like that late in the game. The Ravens get the game tying FG as a result and then win it in OT 16-13. Someone fire Norv Turner now. He and Lane Kiffin never deserved their jobs. THAT'S RIGHT, LANE, I'M CALLING YOUR BS YOU CALL HEAD COACHING SKILLS OUT TWO DAYS IN A ROW!!!
P.S. To read my full take on the 49ers win over the Saints, click here. Remember to check out the 49ers section at Prosportsblogging.com for my scoop on the team before and after the game.
Meanwhile, the Falcons took their questionable game play to Tampa to face the Buccaneers. This game featured a neck and neck game that went down to the final seconds as the Falcons barely make it out of central Florida with a 24-23 win. Atlanta scored the game winning TD with a Michael Turner 3 yard TD run in the middle of the 4th quarter. A FG miss for both sides afterwards put the end to this game. Falcons are now 10-1 while the Bucs fall to 6-5.
Tampa Bay, however, do not loss any ground in their Wild Card hunt. The Seahawks lose to the Dolphins 24-21 which keeps them at 6-5. So does Minnesota with their 28-10 loss to the Chicago Bears. True, Washington crept a step closer winning their game over Dallas on Thanksgiving but New Orleans 31-21 loss to San Francisco means they don't tie with the Bucs. So Seattle, Tampa, and Minnesota remain tied at 6-5 fighting for that 6th Wild Card spot.
Also, how does San Diego let Ray Rice convert a 4th and 29 on a dump play like that late in the game. The Ravens get the game tying FG as a result and then win it in OT 16-13. Someone fire Norv Turner now. He and Lane Kiffin never deserved their jobs. THAT'S RIGHT, LANE, I'M CALLING YOUR BS YOU CALL HEAD COACHING SKILLS OUT TWO DAYS IN A ROW!!!
P.S. To read my full take on the 49ers win over the Saints, click here. Remember to check out the 49ers section at Prosportsblogging.com for my scoop on the team before and after the game.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Falcons Still Undefeated, Texans Are Not, Pats Upset by Another NFC West Team and More
Week 6 was a wake up call for a few teams.
One of those teams was the Houston Texans. The Packers came to Houston to take on the Texans and told them and the rest of the league that they can still destroy another team. Aaron Rodgers unloaded on the Texans with 6 TD passes and 338 passing yards. Rodgers and the Packers jumped to an early lead and never let the Texans catch up. Matt Schaub did poorly throwing 2 picks and no TDs. The Texans just didn't play up to par before their fans or the country. Packers win 42-24. Texans are now 5-1 and no longer undefeated.
There is only one undefeated team left in the NFL and even they had a scare in week 6. The Atlanta Falcons hosted the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders should be an easy opponent to get by but they made it a bit difficult. Matt Ryan got picked off three times in this game and threw one TD in this game to Roddy White in the 2nd quarter. Meanwhile, the Raiders had 474 total yards on offense while the Falcons only had 286. The Falcons still were able to win it in the end with the Falcons making a quick drive down the field to score a 55 yard FG by Matt Bryant with one second remaining. Falcons win barely 23-20 and stay undefeated.
The rest of the NFL had some interesting games. The Patriots got upset again by another NFC West Team as the Seahawks win it 24-23 with a late 46 yard TD pass from Russell Wilson to Sidney Rice being the decider. Seahawks are now 4-2 and tied with the 49ers and the Cardinals in NFC West. The Cowboys lose to the Ravens 31-29 as Dan Bailey misses a 52 yarder to win it for Dallas. The Cowboys might've been able to get one more play off before kicking a FG but they all had to hustle to find out. The Lions beat the Eagles in OT 26-23 with Jason Hanson making the 45 yard FG to win it. Michael Vick threw two interceptions as the Eagles are lost. Last game I'll mention involves the Jets beating the Colts 35-9. Shonn Greene ran for 161 yards and 3 TDs on the ground just carrying the Jets to a win and stopping the Tebow talk for now.
Thank goodness this day is over. Week 6 ends tonight with the Broncos taking on the Chargers on Monday Night.
P.S. To read my take on what went wrong for the 49ers in week 6, click here. Check out the 49ers section at Prosportsblogging.com for my scoop on the team before and after the game.
One of those teams was the Houston Texans. The Packers came to Houston to take on the Texans and told them and the rest of the league that they can still destroy another team. Aaron Rodgers unloaded on the Texans with 6 TD passes and 338 passing yards. Rodgers and the Packers jumped to an early lead and never let the Texans catch up. Matt Schaub did poorly throwing 2 picks and no TDs. The Texans just didn't play up to par before their fans or the country. Packers win 42-24. Texans are now 5-1 and no longer undefeated.
There is only one undefeated team left in the NFL and even they had a scare in week 6. The Atlanta Falcons hosted the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders should be an easy opponent to get by but they made it a bit difficult. Matt Ryan got picked off three times in this game and threw one TD in this game to Roddy White in the 2nd quarter. Meanwhile, the Raiders had 474 total yards on offense while the Falcons only had 286. The Falcons still were able to win it in the end with the Falcons making a quick drive down the field to score a 55 yard FG by Matt Bryant with one second remaining. Falcons win barely 23-20 and stay undefeated.
The rest of the NFL had some interesting games. The Patriots got upset again by another NFC West Team as the Seahawks win it 24-23 with a late 46 yard TD pass from Russell Wilson to Sidney Rice being the decider. Seahawks are now 4-2 and tied with the 49ers and the Cardinals in NFC West. The Cowboys lose to the Ravens 31-29 as Dan Bailey misses a 52 yarder to win it for Dallas. The Cowboys might've been able to get one more play off before kicking a FG but they all had to hustle to find out. The Lions beat the Eagles in OT 26-23 with Jason Hanson making the 45 yard FG to win it. Michael Vick threw two interceptions as the Eagles are lost. Last game I'll mention involves the Jets beating the Colts 35-9. Shonn Greene ran for 161 yards and 3 TDs on the ground just carrying the Jets to a win and stopping the Tebow talk for now.
Thank goodness this day is over. Week 6 ends tonight with the Broncos taking on the Chargers on Monday Night.
P.S. To read my take on what went wrong for the 49ers in week 6, click here. Check out the 49ers section at Prosportsblogging.com for my scoop on the team before and after the game.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Saints Finally Win a Game, Pats Beats Broncos, Bad Luck for Packers and More
Week 5 is here no thanks to that boring display on Thursday night. Made it easier to change over to Big Bang Theory. (I'M ON THE WEST COAST, OKAY!!!)
The Saints have struggled to find a win this year most likely because of the year long suspension of their head coach, Sean Peyton. The one week, however, he's allowed to come and watch the team play, they win the game. The Chargers came into town to face the Saints on the Sunday Night Football stage. Drew Brees had another monster game with 4 TD passes and 370 passing yards with only one pick. With that first TD pass to Devery Henderson for 40 yards in the 1st quarter, Brees passed Johnny Unitas for consecutive games with a TD pass. Brees has sole possession of the record at 48. Big picture, the Saints are able to hold off the Chargers late in the game and get their first win of the year 31-24.
Another good match up was earlier in the day featuring another chapter of Brady v. Manning with Peyton Manning now on the Denver Broncos. Manning had a huge day with 345 passing yards along with 3 TD passes. Meanwhile, Tom Brady's numbers had lesser numbers with 223 passing yards and 1 TD pass. The Patriots still win the game, though, 31-21. (What?) They have a running game now (Oh). Steven Ridley had 151 yards on the ground with a TD run. 3 Rushing TD's on the day for the Pats and 251 yards on the ground.
The rest of the days games interest me less (excluding the 49ers of course). Andrew Luck and the Colts come back from a 21-3 half time deficit to the Packers and win it 30-27. Luck was 31/55 with 362 passing yards, 2 TD passes, and one INT. Game ball went to Chuck Pagano. Get well soon. The Steelers managed to squeak by the Eagles, 16-14. Shaun Suisham hit the game winning 34 yd FG as time expired. No picks for Vick but he fumbled it to the other team twice. Cam Newton and the Panthers fall to another team, this time being the Seahawks, 16-12. Can we start questioning just how good Cam Newton is already? Last one I'll mention is that the Falcons stay undefeated as they beat the Redskins 24-17. RG3 sustained a concussion in the game after getting hit hard by Sean Weatherspoon. Where's the fine Goodell?
More football over except for tomorrow night's blowout win for the Texans. Thank goodness the Saints finally got a win. The team and the fans needed it.
P.S. For my complete take on the 49ers record day, click here. Check out the 49ers section at Prosportsblogging.com for my scoop on the team before and after the game.
P.P.S. Also check me out on Twitter @TheSportsKhanSF. "Does this uniform make me look fat?"
The Saints have struggled to find a win this year most likely because of the year long suspension of their head coach, Sean Peyton. The one week, however, he's allowed to come and watch the team play, they win the game. The Chargers came into town to face the Saints on the Sunday Night Football stage. Drew Brees had another monster game with 4 TD passes and 370 passing yards with only one pick. With that first TD pass to Devery Henderson for 40 yards in the 1st quarter, Brees passed Johnny Unitas for consecutive games with a TD pass. Brees has sole possession of the record at 48. Big picture, the Saints are able to hold off the Chargers late in the game and get their first win of the year 31-24.
Another good match up was earlier in the day featuring another chapter of Brady v. Manning with Peyton Manning now on the Denver Broncos. Manning had a huge day with 345 passing yards along with 3 TD passes. Meanwhile, Tom Brady's numbers had lesser numbers with 223 passing yards and 1 TD pass. The Patriots still win the game, though, 31-21. (What?) They have a running game now (Oh). Steven Ridley had 151 yards on the ground with a TD run. 3 Rushing TD's on the day for the Pats and 251 yards on the ground.
The rest of the days games interest me less (excluding the 49ers of course). Andrew Luck and the Colts come back from a 21-3 half time deficit to the Packers and win it 30-27. Luck was 31/55 with 362 passing yards, 2 TD passes, and one INT. Game ball went to Chuck Pagano. Get well soon. The Steelers managed to squeak by the Eagles, 16-14. Shaun Suisham hit the game winning 34 yd FG as time expired. No picks for Vick but he fumbled it to the other team twice. Cam Newton and the Panthers fall to another team, this time being the Seahawks, 16-12. Can we start questioning just how good Cam Newton is already? Last one I'll mention is that the Falcons stay undefeated as they beat the Redskins 24-17. RG3 sustained a concussion in the game after getting hit hard by Sean Weatherspoon. Where's the fine Goodell?
More football over except for tomorrow night's blowout win for the Texans. Thank goodness the Saints finally got a win. The team and the fans needed it.
P.S. For my complete take on the 49ers record day, click here. Check out the 49ers section at Prosportsblogging.com for my scoop on the team before and after the game.
P.P.S. Also check me out on Twitter @TheSportsKhanSF. "Does this uniform make me look fat?"
Monday, October 1, 2012
Eagles Survive the G-Men, Saints Now 0-4, Falcons Get By Panthers and More
Week 4 of the NFL continued yesterday with us all thanking our refs and then yelling at them the next minute. After the awkward encounter, we pressed on.
The Sunday Night Football game featured the Giants going into Philly to take on the Eagles. Both teams were 2-1 entering the contest and looking to gain an edge in the NFC East (and hope that the Cowboys lose the next day). It was a slow start that picked up by the end of the first half with a TD pass from Michael Vick to DeSean Jackson to grab the lead for Philly. The Giants would answer back in the third quarter and it was neck and neck until the final drive of the game which had the Giants inexplicably getting first downs via Pass Interference calls. Finally an unfortunate offensive PI call causes Lawrence Tynes to miss the game winner (twice thanks to icing the kicker) for the Giants. Eagles win a close one at the end 19-17 and are somehow 3-1 on the season despite the turnovers and inability to score more points than 90% of the league (including the 49ers).
Earlier in the day, Lambeau had an interesting couple of teams with the Saints looking to get their first win while the Packers were looking to recover from the sacks and the bad call on the Monday Night game. Both Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers played the role of gunslinger in this QB duel. They threw for a combined total of 765 yards and 7 TDs. In the end, it was Aaron Rodgers and the Packers getting the last shot in with an 11 yard TD pass to Jordy Nelson to be the game winner in the 4th quarter. Packers win a close one 28-27. Saints are still winless and have a bigger grudge against the league than the Packers do.
As for the rest of the league, the Falcons survive a visiting Panthers and their QB Cam Newton 30-28 by Matt Bryant making a 40 yard FG leaving 5 seconds left. Cam Newton actually ran for a first down to seal the deal for the Panthers but forgot the ball fumbling it to lead to a 4th down punt. The Patriots adjust for the Bills at halftime and end up destroying them in the 2nd half. They scored 45 second half points to win the game 52-28. The Vikings rattle another team beating the Lions 20-13. The aid of 2 special teams TDs help them win that game and they are surprisingly 3-1. Last one I'll mention is the Redskins beating the Bucs with a FG at the end 24-22. A fine effort by the Bucs to make the comeback in the 2nd half only to come up short.
Another Sunday well wasted in front of the tube. Just wish I could find those chips I lost. I swear they were all in the bag this morning.
The Sunday Night Football game featured the Giants going into Philly to take on the Eagles. Both teams were 2-1 entering the contest and looking to gain an edge in the NFC East (and hope that the Cowboys lose the next day). It was a slow start that picked up by the end of the first half with a TD pass from Michael Vick to DeSean Jackson to grab the lead for Philly. The Giants would answer back in the third quarter and it was neck and neck until the final drive of the game which had the Giants inexplicably getting first downs via Pass Interference calls. Finally an unfortunate offensive PI call causes Lawrence Tynes to miss the game winner (twice thanks to icing the kicker) for the Giants. Eagles win a close one at the end 19-17 and are somehow 3-1 on the season despite the turnovers and inability to score more points than 90% of the league (including the 49ers).
Earlier in the day, Lambeau had an interesting couple of teams with the Saints looking to get their first win while the Packers were looking to recover from the sacks and the bad call on the Monday Night game. Both Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers played the role of gunslinger in this QB duel. They threw for a combined total of 765 yards and 7 TDs. In the end, it was Aaron Rodgers and the Packers getting the last shot in with an 11 yard TD pass to Jordy Nelson to be the game winner in the 4th quarter. Packers win a close one 28-27. Saints are still winless and have a bigger grudge against the league than the Packers do.
As for the rest of the league, the Falcons survive a visiting Panthers and their QB Cam Newton 30-28 by Matt Bryant making a 40 yard FG leaving 5 seconds left. Cam Newton actually ran for a first down to seal the deal for the Panthers but forgot the ball fumbling it to lead to a 4th down punt. The Patriots adjust for the Bills at halftime and end up destroying them in the 2nd half. They scored 45 second half points to win the game 52-28. The Vikings rattle another team beating the Lions 20-13. The aid of 2 special teams TDs help them win that game and they are surprisingly 3-1. Last one I'll mention is the Redskins beating the Bucs with a FG at the end 24-22. A fine effort by the Bucs to make the comeback in the 2nd half only to come up short.
Another Sunday well wasted in front of the tube. Just wish I could find those chips I lost. I swear they were all in the bag this morning.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Upon Further Review... We're Bringing the Old Refs Back
While the 2012 NFL Season has been a fun one to watch so far, the side story of the lockout of the referees and using replacement refs has taken suddenly taken center stage due to a bad TD call at the end of the Packers-Seahawks game on Monday night. News outlets everywhere had it as lead stories grateful to be talking about something else other than the election (#isitover). Two days after the call and then denial by the NFL, the lockout ends after roughly 3 months.
The NFL and the NFLRA spent two days talking over the details and finally got a deal done. Just as the bell tolled midnight, the announcement was made that a tentative agreement was reached between the two parties. The new deal is a 8 year labor agreement includes a salary increase from an average of $149,000 a year in 2011 to $173,000 in 2013, rising to $205,000 by 2019. As for the pension plan, it seems to a compromise as the current defined benefit pension plan will remain in place for current officials through the 2016 season or until the official earns 20 years of service. The defined benefit plan will then be frozen. Then by 2017, new refs hired by the league will have a contribution program setup by the league. (very technical, click here for full scoop at ESPN)
There also seems to be some new hiring agreements like hiring some refs for full time year round service and also retaining some for development and to oversee games. The point is that an agreement was made.
Thank goodness. Now the replacements can go and we can yell and hate the regular referees again.
I will say that I am glad that the regulars are back because while they will make mistakes like the replacements do from time to time, they at least know how to keep teams from ripping each other apart like on Sunday night. These guys know how to manage the game and keep the pace moving which is something that the replacements lack.
Them coming back also bring a sense of legitimacy back to the league. While no human is perfect, the regular refs officiating is best for the integrity of the sport as it's saying that the best are there overlooking things for the league. The use of replacement officials didn't have the same PR message, especially after Monday night.
The regular refs make their return tonight at the Browns-Ravens game. It seems awfully quick to bring them back as they might be rusty but it's better than the replacements at any given time.
The NFL and the NFLRA spent two days talking over the details and finally got a deal done. Just as the bell tolled midnight, the announcement was made that a tentative agreement was reached between the two parties. The new deal is a 8 year labor agreement includes a salary increase from an average of $149,000 a year in 2011 to $173,000 in 2013, rising to $205,000 by 2019. As for the pension plan, it seems to a compromise as the current defined benefit pension plan will remain in place for current officials through the 2016 season or until the official earns 20 years of service. The defined benefit plan will then be frozen. Then by 2017, new refs hired by the league will have a contribution program setup by the league. (very technical, click here for full scoop at ESPN)
There also seems to be some new hiring agreements like hiring some refs for full time year round service and also retaining some for development and to oversee games. The point is that an agreement was made.
Thank goodness. Now the replacements can go and we can yell and hate the regular referees again.
I will say that I am glad that the regulars are back because while they will make mistakes like the replacements do from time to time, they at least know how to keep teams from ripping each other apart like on Sunday night. These guys know how to manage the game and keep the pace moving which is something that the replacements lack.
Them coming back also bring a sense of legitimacy back to the league. While no human is perfect, the regular refs officiating is best for the integrity of the sport as it's saying that the best are there overlooking things for the league. The use of replacement officials didn't have the same PR message, especially after Monday night.
The regular refs make their return tonight at the Browns-Ravens game. It seems awfully quick to bring them back as they might be rusty but it's better than the replacements at any given time.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
BRING THE REGULAR REFS BACK NOW!!!
The worst case scenario when the NFL decided to lockout the referees (because their dicks) was that an error made by the replacement refs would ultimately decide the fate of a game. That scenario came to life earlier tonight.
The Packers and the Seahawks played in CenturyLink Field in Seattle for some Monday Night Football action and there wa... FINE!!! Let's cut to the chase and just say that the game came down to a 4th and basically-have-to-win-it for the Seahawks at the GB 24 with 8 seconds left and the Packers leading by 5. After scrambling for a few seconds, Seahawks Rookie QB Russell Wilson throws a pass in the endzone with a bunch of players from both teams awaiting the ball to arrive. M.D. Jennings of the Packers appeared to come down with the ball with Seahawk Receiver Golden Tate's hands on it as well trying to wrestle it away. Anybody who has seen the instant replay of the throw can tell that Jennings had possession of the ball first with it against his chest with Tate still trying to wrestle it away.
Then the mistakes come. The refs don't know what to call and initially stand there paralyzed as to what just happened. Then one of them rules TD a split second before another makes a motion indicating that the ball has changed hands on an interception. The official call is a TD and the Seattle crowd goes nuts. The refs are asked to go to instant replay and they look at it and confirm the call afterwards. The Seahawks then eventually make the extra point with some of the disgusted Packers coming back onto the field from the dressing room. The Seahawks wi... NO... the refs GIVE the game to the Seahawks 14-12.
Right now the league is in trouble. Everyone in the league and the media was afraid that this kind of scenario would happen and it has. It was a gamble by the league in the first place to lockout the refs and bring in these replacements. The league apparently doesn't know what happens when you gamble and they now lost.
The league will now hear from everyone who has a voice (even priests who have taken a vow of silence) yell at the top of their lungs that the regular refs have to come back and that the league has to budge considerably on their demands. As for me, the league has to bring the regular officials back ASAP. The integrity of any sport cannot be in jeopardy at any time. This incident automatically calls the league's integrity into question rather than simple speculation when the lockout began. The league's image is now being affected negatively.
The lockout of the officials is now in the forefront of every fan's mind thinking what will the officials screw up in their games this week. Surely the regular officials do make mistakes but not like this one.
P.S. Also, Golden Tate should've been called for Offensive Pass Interference on the play. Two reasons the Packers should've won.
The Packers and the Seahawks played in CenturyLink Field in Seattle for some Monday Night Football action and there wa... FINE!!! Let's cut to the chase and just say that the game came down to a 4th and basically-have-to-win-it for the Seahawks at the GB 24 with 8 seconds left and the Packers leading by 5. After scrambling for a few seconds, Seahawks Rookie QB Russell Wilson throws a pass in the endzone with a bunch of players from both teams awaiting the ball to arrive. M.D. Jennings of the Packers appeared to come down with the ball with Seahawk Receiver Golden Tate's hands on it as well trying to wrestle it away. Anybody who has seen the instant replay of the throw can tell that Jennings had possession of the ball first with it against his chest with Tate still trying to wrestle it away.
Then the mistakes come. The refs don't know what to call and initially stand there paralyzed as to what just happened. Then one of them rules TD a split second before another makes a motion indicating that the ball has changed hands on an interception. The official call is a TD and the Seattle crowd goes nuts. The refs are asked to go to instant replay and they look at it and confirm the call afterwards. The Seahawks then eventually make the extra point with some of the disgusted Packers coming back onto the field from the dressing room. The Seahawks wi... NO... the refs GIVE the game to the Seahawks 14-12.
Right now the league is in trouble. Everyone in the league and the media was afraid that this kind of scenario would happen and it has. It was a gamble by the league in the first place to lockout the refs and bring in these replacements. The league apparently doesn't know what happens when you gamble and they now lost.
The league will now hear from everyone who has a voice (even priests who have taken a vow of silence) yell at the top of their lungs that the regular refs have to come back and that the league has to budge considerably on their demands. As for me, the league has to bring the regular officials back ASAP. The integrity of any sport cannot be in jeopardy at any time. This incident automatically calls the league's integrity into question rather than simple speculation when the lockout began. The league's image is now being affected negatively.
The lockout of the officials is now in the forefront of every fan's mind thinking what will the officials screw up in their games this week. Surely the regular officials do make mistakes but not like this one.
P.S. Also, Golden Tate should've been called for Offensive Pass Interference on the play. Two reasons the Packers should've won.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Bears Get "Bumped" by Packers 23-10
Jay Cutler and the Bears had a great first week while the Packers struggled in their opener. Yesterday their roles were reversed.
The Bears and the Packers played each other last night in the first of many Thursday Night Football games to be played throughout the year. Heaven forbid if we have to wait until Sunday each and every week to see some football. The Packers defense came out wanting to prove they were better than week 1 vs. the 49ers and showed that tonight. They got in Jay Cutler's face and got familiar with it by sacking him 7 times. Jay Cutler's woes didn't stop there as he threw 11/27 for 126 yards, 1 TD, and 4 INTs. The Packers offense didn't look to great either but they did better than the Bears (along with a trick play by the FG team which led to a TD). Packers win 23-10.
Now we can finally stop talking about how the Packers are "falling apart" and talk about how the Bears are "falling apart." This is going to be fun. While this team does need to improve some, there is no need to push the red button. It can definitely start with some better pass blocking but QB play could improve as well. No one throws 4 INTs solely because of the pressure. Cutler needs to make better decisions.
The O-line knows they stunk and will get ripped by the coaches plenty. So stop bothering the line and worry about your own game. Yes, the risky throws are what can make a QB great but it's also deciding when not to throw them that can make them better.
P.S. Remember when we just had Thursday Night football on Thanksgiving? Why did we change that?
The Bears and the Packers played each other last night in the first of many Thursday Night Football games to be played throughout the year. Heaven forbid if we have to wait until Sunday each and every week to see some football. The Packers defense came out wanting to prove they were better than week 1 vs. the 49ers and showed that tonight. They got in Jay Cutler's face and got familiar with it by sacking him 7 times. Jay Cutler's woes didn't stop there as he threw 11/27 for 126 yards, 1 TD, and 4 INTs. The Packers offense didn't look to great either but they did better than the Bears (along with a trick play by the FG team which led to a TD). Packers win 23-10.
Now we can finally stop talking about how the Packers are "falling apart" and talk about how the Bears are "falling apart." This is going to be fun. While this team does need to improve some, there is no need to push the red button. It can definitely start with some better pass blocking but QB play could improve as well. No one throws 4 INTs solely because of the pressure. Cutler needs to make better decisions.
The O-line knows they stunk and will get ripped by the coaches plenty. So stop bothering the line and worry about your own game. Yes, the risky throws are what can make a QB great but it's also deciding when not to throw them that can make them better.
P.S. Remember when we just had Thursday Night football on Thanksgiving? Why did we change that?
Saturday, September 1, 2012
2012 NFC North Preview: Lions, Packers, and Bears... Oh Why?
The NFC North this year seems like the NFC East where many teams have legitimate shots at the division title... except for the Vikings. They will likely be happy with Christian Ponder developing for another season.
As for the other three, they all certainly have what it takes to win the NFC North. The Packers have one of the best QB's in the league with Aaron Rodgers leading the aerial assault. I'm more concerned with their defense overall. You might need a QB to win a title but a good defense is still required. The Bears might have both a good QB and defense but the D is getting old. Lance Briggs and Brian Urlacher are still two of the finest Linebackers in the game but their in the 30's now and could start to wear down. Urlacher is already fighting through an injury.
My pick for the NFC North is the Detroit Lions. That offense led by Matthew Stafford is phenomenal with Calvin Johnson to throw to and the defensive line led by Ndamukong Suh strikes fears in QB's everywhere. I think this is the Lions year to claim a division title and maybe more.
As for the other three, they all certainly have what it takes to win the NFC North. The Packers have one of the best QB's in the league with Aaron Rodgers leading the aerial assault. I'm more concerned with their defense overall. You might need a QB to win a title but a good defense is still required. The Bears might have both a good QB and defense but the D is getting old. Lance Briggs and Brian Urlacher are still two of the finest Linebackers in the game but their in the 30's now and could start to wear down. Urlacher is already fighting through an injury.
My pick for the NFC North is the Detroit Lions. That offense led by Matthew Stafford is phenomenal with Calvin Johnson to throw to and the defensive line led by Ndamukong Suh strikes fears in QB's everywhere. I think this is the Lions year to claim a division title and maybe more.
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